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Congressman DeSaulnier Votes to Keep Government Open

Funding Agreement Emphasizes the Humane Treatment of Immigrants, Assists with California Wildfire Cleanup, Invests in Key Environmental Programs, and Includes DeSaulnier’s Provision to Support Electric Trucks

Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-11) voted in favor of the Conference Report to Accompany H.J.Res. 31, the funding agreement reached to avert a shutdown and address border security. Among its positive provisions, the deal makes much needed investments in environmental programs, infrastructure, and affordable housing; provides a pay raise to federal workers; ensures the humane treatment of immigrants; and assists with California wildfire cleanup efforts. The funding agreement passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 300-to-128, and is headed to the President’s desk for signature.

“Rather than allow the President to shut the government down again after the suffering he caused federal workers and the American public for 35 days, we agreed to keep the government open and funded. We should not be governing by shutdowns,” said Congressman DeSaulnier. “It is not a perfect deal, but it is a bipartisan agreement between both chambers of Congress. Should President Trump declare a national emergency when he signs this legislation, we stand ready to fight it at every turn.”

Also included in the bill is a provision authored by Congressman DeSaulnier that will help accelerate the transition to clean transportation in the trucking industry. DeSaulnier’s measure allows electric battery powered trucks to exceed federal weight limits by 2,000 pounds to offset the battery systems that are heavier than traditional diesel fuel tanks.

“After years of pressing, I am pleased that this commonsense adjustment will be law. In order to maintain America’s competitive edge well into the twenty-first century, we must pave the way for new advances that help spur innovation, support manufacturers, promote cleaner technologies, and protect public health and safety,” said Congressman Mark DeSaulnier.